A Conductivity Analysis of a Newly Synthesized Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Methyl Ether Hydroxide Electrolyte

This thesis investigates the synthesis and conductive properties of a Poly (ethylene glycol) methyl ether-based polymer electrolyte. The goal of the synthesis is to enhance the hydroxide ion conduction properties of the polymer with its cationic groups attached. The MePEG backbone contained seven ethylene glycol groups and was modified to substitute the hydroxide group in the MePEG with trimethylamine. In addition, the bromide added in the synthesis was exchanged for hydroxide ions to allow for the transportation of hydroxide ions in polymeric electrolytes that can be used in Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells. The newly synthesized polymer was compared to the backbone of the polymer, MePEG7, using lithium ions to measure the conductivity. The conductive analysis in anhydrous environments yielded a temperature based ionic conductivity study and the activation energy that is needed to transport the ions across the membrane. This analysis helped to characterize the potential viability of the MePEG based polymeric electrolytes in anion exchange membranes based on its conductivity and activation energy